Counter Stool vs. Bar Stool: What is the difference?
The Simple Rule (and the Exact Measurements) You Need
Choosing the right chair height transforms both the comfort and balance of your space. While counter and bar stools may look similar, their proportions are designed for different surface heights. Understanding this difference ensures that your seating feels as beautiful as it looks. The easiest rule to remember the difference between a Counter Stool vs a Bar Stool is:
If your counter surface is the same height as your sink/cooktop, choose counter stools.
If it’s taller than your sink/cooktop, choose bar stools.
Tip: Leave ~25–30 cm of space between the countertop and the underside of the counter for knee comfort.
What is a Counter Stool?
A counter stool is designed for surfaces the same height as your kitchen counter, stove, or sink typically 90–95 cm high. It offers relaxed, casual seating perfect for kitchen islands or breakfast nooks, where people often gather for everyday meals or conversations.
Seat height: 65–70 cm | Best for: Kitchen counters, islands, casual dining areas
A bar stool is slightly taller and made for bar counters or high tables usually 105–110 cm in height. Its elevated seat and footrest create a more upright posture, ideal for entertaining or serving drinks in social spaces.
Seat height: 75–80 cm | Best for: Bar tables, tall counters, entertainment areas
- Measure height from floor to the underside of the counter.
- Subtract 20–30 cm to find your ideal seat height range.
- Plan spacing: allow ~15 cm between stools (e.g., 240 cm counter ÷ 60 cm per stool = 4 stools).
- Mark up the space with masking tape on the floor for each stool for a better visual representation.
Common Mistakes (and easy fixes)
- Stools too tall/short: measure your surface first, target the 25–30 cm clearance.
- Too many stools: leave enough elbow room; it looks better and feels better.
- No foot support: confirm a built-in rail or choose stools with a sturdy footrest.
- Ignoring overhang: ensure 25–30 cm for comfortable knees.
The Takeaway Rule to Remember
If your surface is the same height as your sink/cooktop → counter stools. If it’s higher → bar stools.
*Always keep 25–30 cm of knee height room for guaranteed comfort.
Discover counter stools and bar stools curated for modern spaces. Refined lines, durable materials, and options that work just as beautifully for family breakfasts as they do for weekend entertaining.